Frauenbad - Arnulf Rainer Museum
Josefsplatz 5
From Bathhouse to Art House
The Arnulf Rainer Museum is located in one of Baden’s true architectural gems. Where visitors today explore inspiring art exhibitions, spa guests once came to relax and bathe: in the historic Frauenbad — the largest and most elegant bathhouse in the famous spa town of Baden near Vienna. It is the only former bath in Baden where the original spa architecture, including the bathing pools and changing cabins, has been preserved. This unique atmosphere can still be felt throughout the entire museum.
The heritage-listed building was designed by Charles de Moreau, one of the leading architects of French Classicism. The foundation stone was laid on 7 April 1821 by Archduke Anton Viktor, and the commemorative stone from that day can still be seen in the museum foyer. Around 50 years after its opening, the bathhouse was remodelled, creating the impressive Historicist Mirror Hall.
Although the bathing facilities closed in 1973, the building opened again to the public in 1977 as an important exhibition venue, beginning with a major retrospective of Arnulf Rainer. Many renowned artists and exhibitions on Baden’s cultural history followed.
In 2009, the building — redesigned by architects Lottersberger-Messner-Dumpelnik — reopened as the Arnulf Rainer Museum. The Province of Lower Austria and the City of Baden created this institution in honour of Arnulf Rainer, who was born in Baden in 1929. Through monographic and thematic exhibitions, the museum presents his multifaceted oeuvre and highlights connections to his artistic contemporaries. As one of the most significant Austrian artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, Rainer’s works — represented in major museums worldwide — are made accessible to both regional and international audiences through exhibitions, publications and cultural events.
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday (and Monday on public holidays) 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Exhibitions, Programmes & Tickets:
www.arnulf-rainer-museum.at
Subject to change.
Status: 03rd December 2025